I took the opportunity to sign up for Revit tutorials, as it is software which I have never used before, and I know that it is a desirable skill to have when looking for jobs after the masters. There were three session, which were run by Chris Senior of Infinite BIM.
Session 1: getting familiar with the interface and basic principles
In the first session, we were given an overview of the software, its uses, and how it differs from other ways of working in practice, such as with CAD. This session was mostly about getting us familiar with using the software, by using an existing example model, rather than modelling anything new ourselves.
The interface was explained to us, how to use the 'project browser' to access different sheets and model views, and how to navigate – zooming, panning, rotating etc. After this, we looked at properties and shortcuts. Next, Revit families were introduced to us, and then how technical detailing is done, and how to work with cameras to get different views. Finally, we learnt how to set up some of our own sheets based on the example model. This included learning how to make sections, add dimensions and room volumes.
A sheet layout in Revit, with various different views and drawings compiled on a page
Session 2: modelling and scheduling
In the second session, instead of working with an example model, we started from scratch and began modelling a simple building ourselves.
Firstly we learnt how to set levels and grid lines, as these then form the basis for the building that we will model. With this in place, we added external walls, foundations, floor slab, roof and internal walls. With each of these, we explored various customisable settings, which allow you to create exactly what type of element you want. After this, we moved on to inserting families for the first time, to add doors and windows. We also looked at how these can be customised, changing the dimensions to whatever is required. Next, we used the stairs tool, and then also looked at how curtain walling is achieved with its own dedicated tool. Moving beyond the building itself, we then added landscape topography, including creating a subregion for a road, and then added a pad under the building. Finally, we looked at schedules, where we created room boundaries and then derived a schedule from this information.
A simple building created from scratch, including customised windows and doors, curtain walling, a staircase, and topographical context
Session 3: families and technical detailing
In this final session, we created a revit family and did some technical detailing and two and three dimensions.
It was shown to us how revit families are parametric (expanding on what we were shown in the first session), meaning that they can be adapted whilst retaining their key characteristics. This is done by setting reference planes for certain features, such as its top surface and the thickness of elements. We created a table, and then tested that we had properly parametrically set up the family, by 'flexing' it. Once we had done this, we imported several of the different variations of the family into a model.
For the technical detailing part, we used an example model, took sections and plans, and created call-outs for close-up details. We then used the annotate tab, to add detail to these manually. We then moved onto three dimensional detailing. One part of this was pulling apart elements to create an exploded axonometric. Another approach that we tried, was to create a cutaway axonometric, to show the build-up of a wall, for example.
Experimenting with the tools for creating an exploded axonometric
Reflection
I'm really glad that I attended these sessions, as it has given me a good initial introduction to Revit, which puts me in a much better position to then teach myself further through using it and accessing online tutorials, than if I was starting as a complete beginner on my own. I am not yet sure whether I will use it as the main software for modelling my design thesis project, as I think that it is best used for real projects in practice, and isn't best applied to quite speculative and unusual projects, as mine is likely to be. However, I will certainly find this experience and the notes that I have taken to be useful for getting me ready for going into practice again after the masters is complete.
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